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A reliable, well-architected telecommunications infrastructure is the backbone of effective surveillance deployment. Here are key security networking tips to ensure your system is built for performance, resilience, and long-term success.
Key takeaways
- A strong network is the foundation of any reliable security system
- Designing with surveillance in mind prevents downtime and data loss
- Segmenting your network improves both performance and security
- Planning for bandwidth and storage keeps video quality high and footage accessible
- Choosing enterprise-grade hardware and securing the network layer helps protect against cyber threats
- Partnering with Unisol ensures your security network is expertly designed, seamlessly integrated, and built to scale with your needs
According to AI Enterprise, network-related issues are responsible for 75% of surveillance system failures. Whether it’s lagging video feeds, dropped camera connections, or system downtime, these problems often stem from weak or poorly designed network infrastructure, not the hardware itself.
Security systems use more internet-based technology and live data, so having a strong and reliable network is key. Without a strong network foundation, even the best cameras and sensors can fail to deliver essential information when it matters most, leaving blind spots and vulnerabilities in your security coverage.
Keep reading to discover five essential security networking tips for fortifying your video surveillance system.
1. Build with surveillance in mind
A security system is only as strong as the network it depends on. No matter how advanced your cameras or sensors are, a weak or fragmented network can leave the entire system vulnerable to failure or breaches.
One of the most common weaknesses in modern setups is the separation between communication networks and security systems. When these systems don’t work together, it often leads to delays, blind spots, and unnecessary complexity.
Integrating telecom and security infrastructure solves this problem. Unifying them into a single system improves performance, simplifies management, and creates a stronger, more scalable foundation for long-term security.
2. Prioritize network segmentation
Network segmentation involves dividing a network into smaller, controlled sections to improve performance and security. One effective method is using virtual local area networks to isolate camera traffic from other data streams. This ensures video feeds remain stable and unaffected by congestion from unrelated devices.
Segmenting traffic also enhances security. It limits access, reduces the attack surface, and keeps sensitive data separate from general network activity. If one segment is compromised, the breach is contained, and the rest of the system stays protected.
3. Plan for bandwidth and storage
You must always plan the bandwidth and storage that your security system needs. This involves estimating how much data your system will handle so it doesn’t slow down or lose footage.
Here are some essential points:
- 4K cameras use more bandwidth than high-definition (HD) cameras
- More cameras mean more data going through the network
- Higher video quality needs more storage space
- Longer retention times require even more storage
- If the bandwidth is too low, video quality can drop or freeze
To keep your security system running smoothly, you must know how much data your cameras will send over the network. This is called throughput. HD cameras usually use less bandwidth, but 4K cameras send more data because their video quality and files are larger. For example, an HD camera might use around 4–8 Mbps, while a 4K camera can use 15–25 Mbps or more.
When estimating throughput, consider the resolution of each recording. More cameras or higher resolutions mean you need a stronger network to handle all that data simultaneously without slowing down or dropping video. Accurately calculating throughput helps prevent network overloads and keeps your video feeds clear and reliable.
4. Use enterprise-grade switches and PoE
If you want your security network to stay fast, stable, and easy to manage, use enterprise-grade switches and Power over Ethernet (PoE). These switches are built to support large-scale systems, handling dozens of cameras, access points, and sensors without slowing down or failing.
Benefits of PoE switches and remote power cycling include:
- Handling high-density deployments: Enterprise switches can support dozens or hundreds of connected devices without performance issues
- Providing better power control: They let you manage how much power each device receives, helping prevent overloads
- Saving time with remote power cycling: You can reboot cameras or devices from anywhere without visiting the site
- Including built-in security features: Many enterprise switches have advanced protections against network threats
- Features improved uptime and reliability: These switches are designed for 24/7 operation and reduce the risk of network failures.
Investing in quality switches and PoE tech makes your security system more stable, efficient, and easier to manage.
5. Secure the network layer
Your security system isn’t just at risk from physical threats; cyber threats are also a big concern. Protecting your IP camera network helps keep your video feeds and data safe from hackers and unauthorized access.
Here are some best practices:
- Use firewalls to block unwanted traffic and prevent external threats from entering your network
- Set up access control lists to control who can reach what devices and services on the network
- Segment the network so cameras and security devices are isolated from other systems
- Change default passwords on all devices and use strong, unique credentials
- Encrypt video streams to keep data secure during transmission
- Run regular audits and vulnerability scans to catch weak spots before attackers do
- Keep firmware and software updated to patch known security flaws
These steps will strengthen your network’s defenses and help ensure your security system stays secure.
Elevate your network. Empower your security. Trust Unisol.
A robust surveillance system starts with a reliable, well-structured telecommunications foundation. But too often, businesses rely on outdated or piecemeal infrastructure that struggles to support modern security demands. As systems scale and threats become more complex, performance, compatibility, and resilience gaps start to show.
That’s where Unisol International comes in. With deep expertise in converging telecom and security networks, we help organizations move beyond fragmented setups to fully integrated, future-ready solutions. Our team transforms infrastructure from basic to strategic, ensuring every component works together to deliver performance, visibility, and long-term reliability.
Ready to build a network as intelligent and resilient as the systems it supports? Contact us for a customized consultation and see how we can power your next-generation security infrastructure.
